International Women's Day 2015 March 06 2015

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated around the world every year on March 8. Thousands of events are held by organisations, governments, charities, educational institutions, women's groups, and corporations to celebrate and honour the economic, political and social achievements of women. This year’s theme is 'Make It Happen', encouraging effective action for advancing and recognising women.

So how can you get involved? There are loads of fabulous events on today and happening around Australia this weekend to celebrate IWD, from brunches and high teas to exhibitions and webinars. To search for events happening near you go to the Events page at internationalwomensday.com.au.

There are lots of other wonderful ways you can celebrate IWD. We’ve put a list together of our favourite ways to participate in International Women’s Day this year.

Use Your Voice on Social Media

Support International Women’s Day online by using your voice on social media. You can share and retweet or repost content and connect with other women. Here are some relevant hashtags:

Paint It Purple

Purple is the official colour of IWD. It comes from the colour scheme of purple, white and green which was used by the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in Great Britain from 1908 to symbolise the plight of the Suffragettes. Purple symbolises two values strongly associated with women's equality - justice and dignity. You can make your website, blog, emails or social media cover and header photos purple on March 8 to show your support for International Women’s Day. Alternatively, you can wear purple clothing or put up purple decorations at home, around the office or at school.

Run your own event

Why not run your own event celebrating women to raise awareness for gender equality? You could hold an event at your workplace, school or even at your own home with your girlfriends. You can make it a fundraising event or purely a celebration of the achievements of women and womanhood. From morning teas and lunches to raffles and fun runs, the sky is the limit!

Give a gift to the inspiring women in your life

Why not give the special women in your life a gift made by Australian women on International Women’s Day? Here are some fabulous gift ideas which will make your sisters, mothers, grandmothers, daughters, aunties, colleagues, and girlfriends smile this Sunday.

Our unique collection of Marie B Jewellery include earrings and necklaces made with real handpicked Australian flowers that are preserved in resin. Purchase these pieces as a set and save 10% off the price!

This stunning hand made bracelet, also by Marie B jewellery, features a real leaf preserved in sterling silver, a stunning inspirational heart charm and a stretch bracelet making it suitable for most women's wrists.

The "Forage" design on this fashionable scarf from The Spotted Quoll was captured at Holly Bank National Park near Launceson, Tasmania. The nature inspired design is printed with eco-friendly water based pigment inks onto 100% natural cotton voile, with a delicate, gauzy texture so your scarf behaves perfectly and can be easily transformed into different styles to suit your ever changing mood!

These cute little bags by Maya Muse are called 'Anything Bags' because they can be used for ANYTHING! Lined with a water resistant fabric, they are ideal makeup and toiletries bags, or can be used for jewellery, sewing supplies, or pens & pencils. All the 'Anything Bags are made in Australia and are printed using hand mixed eco-friendly textile inks.

To find more lovely gifts designed and created by Australian women visit our online store at bitsofaustralia.com.au